MJ Abbott awarded Close House contract

Leading golf course contractor MJ Abbott Limited has been awarded the contract to build the new Colt Course at Close House Hotel and Golf Resort near Heddon on the Wall in Northumberland.

The championship length course, designed by lead architect Scott Macpherson of TurnerMacpherson Golf Design, will measure in excess of 7,000 yards. Work began on site in April and will be completed by October.

The extensive contract includes earthworks, shaping of the course, the construction of greens, tees, bunkers and lakes, the renovation of historic lakes, installation of a primary drainage system, the design and installation of a fully-automated irrigation system, cultivation, seeding and landscaping.

The course is situated within the grounds of the Close House estate. The hotel stands on the site of a thirteenth century monastic house which was demolished to make way for the present day mansion in 1779.

The estate was bought by local businessman Graham Wylie in August 2004 and reopened as The Close House Hotel in March 2005. Once complete, the new course will provide stunning views of the River Tyne and surrounding area.

John Glendinning, Golf Manager of Close House commented; "We are delighted to have employed MJ Abbott as the golf course contractors for The Colt Course. They have a portfolio that is second to none and we are sure the course will be built to the quality and standard that will make it something special."

www.mjabbott.co.uk